½cupdry amaranth100g, cooked in 1 1/2 cups / 360ml water
1cupquinoa flakes102g
2stalksscallionsthinly sliced
¼cupgreen peas40g, fresh or frozen, thawed
1tablespoonground flaxseedmixed with 3 tablespoons water, rested 5 minutes to gel
1-2mediumtomatoesabout 150–300g, sliced
1cupfresh spinach leaves30g
2tablespoonsolive oil30ml, for frying
3wholeburger bunsvegan if desired
1pinchsaltto taste
1pinchground black pepperto taste
Instructions
Cook 1/2 cup amaranth in 1 1/2 cups water in a covered saucepan over medium heat for 20 minutes until all water is absorbed and grains are fully tender. Let cool for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, stir together 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed and 3 tablespoons water in a small bowl; let sit for 5 minutes until gelled. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled amaranth, quinoa flakes, sliced scallions, green peas, flax egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
1/2 cup dry amaranth, 1 cup quinoa flakes, 2 stalks scallions, 1/4 cup green peas, 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed, 1 pinch salt
Divide the mixture into 3 equal portions and shape into patties about 3/4 inch (2cm) thick. If time allows, refrigerate the patties on a plate for 15–20 minutes — chilling firms them and makes flipping easier.
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until the oil shimmers. Carefully place the patties in the pan and cook for 5 minutes per side, undisturbed, until a golden-brown crust forms. Flip gently with a thin spatula.
2 tablespoons olive oil
In the same skillet, add the spinach leaves and sauté for 30–60 seconds over medium heat, tossing until just wilted. Season with a pinch of salt.
1 cup fresh spinach leaves, 1 pinch salt
Cut the tomatoes into thin slices.
1-2 medium tomatoes
Toast the burger buns lightly if desired. Place a patty on each bun, top with wilted spinach and fresh tomato slices, and add your favourite condiments. Serve immediately.
3 whole burger buns
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Notes
Storage: Cooked patties keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side to restore the crust.Freezer-friendly: Freeze uncooked patties flat on a parchment-lined baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-lock bag for up to 6 weeks. Cook from frozen over medium-low heat, adding about 3 extra minutes per side.Make-ahead: Form raw patties up to 24 hours in advance — stack with parchment squares between them and refrigerate.Substitution: Replace green peas with thawed edamame or finely diced sweet corn for a different texture and flavour. Rolled oats can substitute for quinoa flakes in equal quantity.Pro tip: Let the cooked amaranth cool for at least 5 minutes before mixing — warm amaranth softens the quinoa flakes and weakens the bind, leading to patties that fall apart.